Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) —  On 15 October, a meeting was held in Almalyk to discuss the current development of Tashkent region and to define future objectives.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev conducted a detailed analysis of the socio-economic status of the region and highlighted additional opportunities available.

Over the past seven years, Tashkent region has undergone significant changes. The region’s economy has grown 1.5 times, with the gross added value reaching 119 trillion soums last year. The number of entrepreneurs increased by 16,000, creating 170,000 permanent jobs. A total of 826 new industrial enterprises were put into operation, amounting to US$6 billion, with exports totaling US$5 billion. In the last four years, 70,000 families have been lifted out of poverty, with an additional 19,000 this year alone.

Tashkent region leads the republic in the number of districts and cities. Approximately 10,000 people work in government institutions in the region, and there are 6,123 members of "mahalla sevens" across 1,025 mahallas. It was emphasized that this resource can be effectively utilized to develop cities and villages and improve the standard of living through internal reserves.

Opportunities have been identified for attracting an additional US$13 billion in investments, creating 500,000 jobs, and generating 3.5 trillion soums for the budget. Separate decisions will be made by the khokimiyat (local government) for each of the 22 districts and cities to realize these opportunities.

Entrepreneurship in Tashkent region is gaining momentum. Due to its proximity to infrastructure, low land costs, and taxes on property and labor, capital businesses are looking to relocate to the region. It was noted that Tashkent, Kibray, Zangiata, Yukorichirchik, and Urtachirchik districts, as well as the cities of Chirchik and Nurafshan, should develop in harmony with the capital.

For example, a 97-hectare industrial technopark is planned for Tashkent district, which will host high value-added projects amounting to US$350 million, involving entrepreneurs and banks. Additionally, there are opportunities for constructing high-rise buildings, new sanatoria, sports, and entertainment facilities in the district.

The cities of Angren, Almalyk, and Akhangaran, along with the Pskent and Akhangaran districts, account for 50% of the region’s industrial output. These areas are closely situated and have rich raw material reserves. A new program called "Industrial Triangle" will be implemented to develop production based on cooperation and cluster systems in these cities and districts.

Currently, 1,100 enterprises operate in the region, and thanks to new projects, this number is expected to increase to 1,500 within 2-3 years. This will reduce transportation costs and production expenses through cooperation.

For instance, Almalyk Mining and Metallurgical Complex annually purchases goods worth 9 trillion soums, creating significant opportunities for the five nearby cities and districts.

It was highlighted that by the end of the year, it is possible to reach US$2 billion in foreign investments and US$1.5 billion in exports, complete 661 projects, and create 30,000 new jobs.

The President instructed a thorough analysis of needs in the machine engineering sector and the development of a three-year program for expanding localization and strengthening cooperation with major enterprises.

Tashkent region possesses substantial land and water resources; however, the average income per hectare is lower than in other regions. Over the past three years, 21,000 hectares of land have been allocated to 57,000 residents for agricultural activities.

The export of fruit and vegetable products from Uzbekistan has not reached last year’s levels, with the low efficiency of 2,200 hectares of orchards and vineyards resulting in an annual export loss of US$10 million. Additionally, Tashkent region ranks last in the implementation of water-saving technologies.

In light of these shortcomings, the deputy khokim (regional governor) for agriculture was relieved of his duties.

The President noted that based on a new horticulture system, plantations of raspberries and blueberries will be established in the foothill areas of Akhangaran and Bostanlyk, while vineyards and cherry orchards will be created in Parkent and Akhangaran. In Angren, the production of pomegranate juice will commence, and in the Akhangaran district, the processing of plums will begin.

This year, an additional 5,000 hectares of land will be allocated to families in Tashkent region for agricultural and horticultural activities.

The goal is to make Tashkent region a model for horticulture and increase product exports to US$300 million.

The meeting also addressed issues related to poverty reduction. Currently, there are 63,000 low-income families in Tashkent region, with 190,000 individuals of working age. Under the "From Poverty to Prosperity" program, it is planned to lift 116,000 residents out of poverty next year.

However, these measures are deemed insufficient. Tashkent region ranks last in the republic for employment through small businesses, with only 25% of the region’s industrial production attributed to small enterprises. Consequently, directives have been issued to actively develop entrepreneurship and create income sources for the population.

According to the tasks set, within a year, employment will be secured for 27,000 low-income citizens based on the experience of Saykhunabad, 8,500 based on Zarbdor, 39,000 based on Uych, and 10,000 based on Gijduvan.

Thanks to the allocation of 1 trillion soums in concessional loans and 32 billion soums in subsidies for small business projects, 30,000 people will be attracted to entrepreneurial activities.

Recently, the number of residents from Tashkent region seeking low-paid work abroad has decreased by 30,000. Nevertheless, 158,000 citizens still work abroad.

The activities of the Migration Agency will now be improved, with new approaches introduced to ensure safe and well-paying jobs. Citizens returning after seasonal work abroad, who plan to leave again, will be trained in higher-paying professions. Those already possessing a profession will receive language training.

Tashkent Region, with its picturesque landscapes and developed infrastructure, boasts significant tourism potential. However, the demand for tourist services currently exceeds supply, leading to high prices. It has been noted that there is an opportunity to expand the number of tourist attractions, double the volume of services, and attract 10 million tourists. Officials have been tasked with preparing projects totaling US$1.5 billion for the upcoming year.

The meeting also addressed preparations for the winter season and the efficient use of energy resources. Directives were issued to replace energy-intensive equipment at large enterprises and to ensure adequate heating for local communities (mahallas).

Khokims (regional governors) of Tashkent Region, along with leaders of cities, districts, and various sectors, presented their work plans. The President engaged in an open dialogue with local residents, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in the region’s development.